StarCraft 2 Multiplayer Beta Launches [Updated]

Update: You can now download the client direct from FileShack in US and GB flavours, though of course you'll still need a Battle.net account with beta access.

Following through on Blizzard's recent vow to launch the StarCraft II multiplayer beta in February 2010, those that have been invited to the first wave can now download and play a sample of the anticipated strategy game through the redesigned Battle.net platform.

Among the multiplayer modes available to testers are ranked 1v1, 2v2 and free-for-all matches, along with unranked custom matches. And though the beta is focused on the multplayer portion of the anticipated strategy sequel, participants can still engage in combat with or against a computer opponent if they so choose.
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As explained in the official FAQ, those who have been chosen to participate will receive notification via e-mail. As for those that have been previously promised beta participation, such as BlizzCon 2008 attendees, Blizzard says it "will contact you via email at some point during the StarCraft II testing process with further instructions."

The company also says that it plans to roll out beta invitations in waves, so don't despair if you haven't been selected for the first wave or have yet to register for participation as "there's a chance you might receive one in a later wave."

There's no word as to how long the beta will run, though Blizzard is currently aiming to release StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty, the first of the planned trilogy, before July 2010.

*Note* the final requirements for Starcraft II have not yet been determined. Due to ongoing development the minimum requirements listed above are subject to change at any time. During this phase a Mac version will NOT be available, please check back.

Players may experience a drop of performance or odd graphical issues after playing for long periods of time. Usually when this occurs a message will appear mentioning the players page pool memory. If you receive the overlay messages informing you of the problem you can try to lower your graphic settings and restarting your client/machine, or increasing the system's memory. Also ensure your drivers are up to date and all OS updates have been applied.